Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd.), has charged newly promoted Nigerian Army officers to remain loyal, disciplined, and committed to the sustenance of democracy in the country.
Buratai gave the advice on Tuesday in Abuja during the decoration ceremony of Col. Ibrahim Bunza and Col. Adetunji Idowu of the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police, recently elevated to their new ranks.
He reminded the officers that promotion signifies the beginning of greater responsibility, which must be matched with hard work, integrity, and professionalism.
“If you must get to generalship, it starts now. Your performance, attitude, character, and disposition to duty will determine your next and subsequent ranks,” Buratai said.
The retired general, who served as the 20th Chief of Army Staff from 2015 to 2021, urged officers to see themselves as defenders of democracy and custodians of national stability, stressing that loyalty remained non-negotiable.
“You must remain loyal. Democracy must be sustained and maintained. Whatever the challenges, I believe democracy itself will solve them,” he added.
Buratai described the newly promoted officers as disciplined and battle-tested, commending Col. Bunza, who served as his Aide-de-Camp (ADC), for his calmness and professionalism during difficult missions in the North East.
He also praised Col. Idowu, Commander of the 6 Provost Group in Port Harcourt, as a resilient officer who led effectively in a challenging environment.
Buratai further highlighted the importance of maintaining a stable home front, urging the officers’ spouses to support them in balancing family life with professional duties.
He encouraged continuous self-improvement through education and personal development, revealing that he recently obtained a certificate in communication and leadership from the University of Cambridge.
“Even in retirement, I continue to learn. So don’t stop improving yourselves,” he advised.
In his remarks, Provost Marshal (Army), Maj.-Gen. Mathias Erubelu, thanked Buratai for his mentorship and contributions to the Corps, particularly during the construction of its current headquarters.
He congratulated the newly promoted officers, describing their elevation as a reward for hard work, diligence, and divine favour.
“There were 298 officers presented for promotion, but only 225 made it. This is a privilege that comes with responsibility,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the honourees, Col. Bunza expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for finding them worthy of elevation, pledging renewed commitment to service, loyalty, and the Army’s core values.
He also thanked Buratai for his mentorship, describing him as “a father and leader whose guidance shaped their careers.”
